Although we entertain in our backyard, it has always been a private place. I have always felt that I develop the garden in the front of the house not only with us in mind but others as well. However, the back garden has been created as a place for repose and relaxation.
To get ideas for creating an oasis, I read books to give me ideas. One of the books I have read that has helped me develop special spots in the garden is Country Living Outdoor Spaces.
=========================================
Title: Country Living Outdoor Spaces (Easy Transformations series)
Authors: Elizabeth S. Hamilton
Published in 2006 by Hearst Communications
=========================================
This book is organized in sections, such as Patios and Decks, Porches, and Paths and Destinations with a plethora of photographs to visualize the ideas presented. In the Freestanding Structures section, garden structures are defined and illustrated.
What I like most about this book besides the many photographs is the examples are simple and achievable. Not one of the ideas is so complex and elaborate that it could not be duplicated.
I found Country Living Outdoor Spaces on Amazon if you want to read some of the reviews.
I am joining Holley at Roses and Other Gardening Joys for this month's Garden Book Reviews. Stop by her blog to see what other gardeners are reading.
© copyright 2012 Michelle A. Potter
Great review--I especially like that they have a Porches and Decks section and that you think the designs are simple and achievable. Makes it less intimidating!
ReplyDeleteI like looking at books with beautiful hardscapes, but I know we could never build such elaborate structures. This book is more reasonable and helpful.
DeleteLooks like a great book! I often get very inspired by books like that, makes me want to do all sorts of changes to my garden :-)
ReplyDeleteMe, too, Helene! I am encouraged and inspired.
DeleteThanks! Always glad to have an excuse to add to my gardening library.
ReplyDeleteMy library is overflowing. I need to get rid of some books I don't use very much.
DeleteGreat review. It looks like you took the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI hope so...the book has helped.
DeleteThe photos of your garden show that you have achieved an oasis in your back yard. And I do think that a lot of gardeners wish just for that. I have not seen this book before, but I especially love the pics of the structures. Simple and achievable? This one is definitely going on my list! Thanks so much for joining in!
ReplyDeleteThanks for hosting, Holley. We will continue to strive for that oasis...
DeleteI really like the two photos that show the benches in the gardens. Both places look like such a peaceful place to sit, and I think the benches look just perfect in the settings, like they belong there. Thank you for reviewing this book. It would be a great one for the home gardening library!
ReplyDeleteWe have tried to achieve a relaxing place in the backyard. I am always looking for ideas, especially because we have a slope.
DeleteThis was a lovely review, thank you. Normally I go to The book report for my reviews, you should give it a try (http://bookreportradio.com). I am definitely adding this one to my birthday list though.
ReplyDeleteI will definitely check that review site out. Before I buy a book, I like to know if it is worth the price.
DeleteHow great to have a book with beautiful, achievable ideas! Seems like a lot of the books and articles about landscaping ideas involve lots of expensive hardscaping or other labor-intensive things. Thanks for the recommendation!
ReplyDeleteI like simple ideas that my husband and I can do ourselves. While we are still able, it is nice to try.
DeleteI love the idea of designing a garden space to promote relaxation. Your first photo of the stone bench behind the tree looks so inviting. What beautiful bark.
ReplyDeleteThe bark is crape myrtle. It shed its young bark last year to reveal this lovely smooth creation.
DeleteI thought the first two photos might have been from the book. You did a wonderful job with your landscape. Thanks for the book review.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Tufa Girl. We don't feel we gotten there yet, but we will keep working at it.
DeleteI love the idea of having a backyard space that is all your own for privacy and relaxation. Yours looks absolutely wonderful. Like Tufa, for a minute I thought they were photos from the book.
ReplyDeleteWe still entertain back there, but mostly it is for us to relax and savor the beauty of the woods and wildlife.
DeleteThose photos look so inviting, it looks like this is one I'll have to check this.
ReplyDeleteThere are lots of great ideas. I really like the book and use it as a reference very often.
DeleteBeautiful photos, as usual. Everyone needs a little slice of heaven in their backyard!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Loretta. We hope we can have that slice of heaven...it makes the backyard such a haven.
Delete